What is Public Policy in Law?

Public policy holds a unique position within our government, shaping our lives and creating a collaborative relationship between the legal and ethical frameworks of the greater population. This system of policies is a hugely important aspect of our lives and how we live in a society, but it's also something that many are unfamiliar with.

For individuals with an interest in learning and exploring more in-depth detail about these social and public policy enforcement practices, or perhaps, for those even aspiring to pursue a career path in this domain, it is highly recommended that they undertake higher education - ie. tertiary studies and qualifications - specifically related to the field, such as, for example, a Masters in Public Policy. For individuals who may only be requiring a more surface-level definition or just a general outline of public policy and the law, on the other hand, reading this article may suffice.

What is Public Policy?

Public policy, on principle, encompasses a set of social guidelines that essentially underpin the day-to-day reality of a society and its population. Importantly, these social guidelines are, in general, based on universally accepted values, which aim to aid and assist society in operating, cohabitating, and existing harmoniously.

Public policy also aims to achieve mutually beneficial goals, as well as enable society to tackle and overcome social issues - issues that a co-existing, cohabitating, close-knit population will inevitably be presented with over time. Crucially, these public agendas are usually made up of topical, pressing, and current societal issues that must be dealt with promptly, efficiently, and ideally, as democratically as possible. For instance, at present, our society has been challenged with the imminent and impending issue of global climate change. It is important to note, however, that public policy about climate change is an extremely contentious issue, due in part to the varying public opinions and voices on the matter within our society. As such, management of this particular social agenda must be handled delicately, especially as policies concerning climate change could potentially be difficult to enforce and regulate using the law.

Public Policy and the Law

When a society's public policies have been established, the next step is for the society's governing body - the Government - to deliberate, create and pass laws and legislations that aim to enforce these social guidelines. Of course, once these laws have been established, they then must be enforced. This is where legislative bodies, and law enforcement agencies, come into play. In our society, for instance, there are three types of law enforcement or legislative body or agency: Federal, State, and Local. Importantly, to pursue a career path within any of these law enforcement agencies or legislative bodies, an individual must attain the relevant tertiary qualifications through a higher education institution or facility, such as a university

How to Pursue a Career in Public Policy

As well as completing the relevant university studies and tertiary qualifications - which will usually involve the completion of coursework units that outline the foundations of public policy, as well as communication, leadership, and policy analysis and evaluation units - there are also several other important steps an ambitious student of public policy can follow to be able to build and develop a successful career in public policy. Firstly, the individual needs to gain a deep understanding of how public policy and governance work - in a practical sense. Next, they need to develop and ascertain their own opinions, voice, and standings on various current and upcoming social issues, public matters, and agendas. After this, the individual would need to explore and investigate learn which specific roles and career pathways are available to them as a graduate of public policy studies. For example, they could choose to become a research assistant, community planner, or data analyst. Alternatively, they could even aspire to become a politician within the government itself. The possibilities are endless!

--

While a career in public policy can be difficult to attain, with the right education and qualifications, dedication, and determination, an ambitious student of public policy can aim high. Importantly, this is a career path for individuals with a social conscience, who want to make difference, and who care about making meaningful changes to the way society operates, manages, and tackles important public issues. A career in public policy can be especially fulfilling and satisfying - particularly when in a role related to the law and legislative enforcement of social policies. Needless to say, public policy and the law are arguably some of the most important areas underpinning our society, and a career in this field is certainly not for the faint of heart, although, it can be immensely rewarding for those who do choose to pursue it.